CVE-2020-20122 in Wuzhi
Summary
by MITRE • 09/29/2021
Wuzhi CMS v4.1 contains a SQL injection vulnerability in the checktitle() function in /coreframe/app/content/admin/content.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-20122 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Wuzhi CMS version 4.1 that specifically targets the checktitle() function located in the /coreframe/app/content/admin/content.php file. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling when processing user-supplied data through the content management interface. The flaw exists in the administrative section of the CMS, making it particularly dangerous as it could allow unauthorized individuals to manipulate database queries and potentially gain complete control over the underlying database system. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize or escape user input before incorporating it into SQL query constructs, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic SQL injection attack vector where the checktitle() function processes title parameters without adequate sanitization measures. When administrators or authenticated users interact with content management features, the application accepts title values that are directly concatenated into SQL statements without proper parameterization or escaping mechanisms. This flaw aligns with CWE-89, which classifies SQL injection as a weakness where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper validation or escaping. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates within the administrative context of the CMS, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges, extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or even execute arbitrary code on the server hosting the vulnerable application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it could enable full database access and potential system takeover. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could enumerate database schemas, extract user credentials, modify content, delete critical information, or establish persistent backdoors within the CMS environment. The administrative nature of the flaw means that successful exploitation could lead to complete compromise of the content management system, affecting all websites and applications hosted through the vulnerable Wuzhi CMS instance. This vulnerability also creates opportunities for lateral movement within network environments where the CMS might be integrated with other systems, potentially leading to broader security breaches. The risk is amplified by the fact that SQL injection vulnerabilities of this nature often remain undetected for extended periods, allowing attackers to maintain persistent access while harvesting sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-20122 should prioritize immediate patching of the Wuzhi CMS version 4.1 to address the specific SQL injection vulnerability in the checktitle() function. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging. The implementation of web application firewalls and database activity monitoring systems can provide additional layers of defense against exploitation attempts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive code reviews to identify and remediate other potential SQL injection vulnerabilities within the CMS and related applications. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to detect similar issues before they can be exploited. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls for administrative functions and establish robust monitoring protocols to detect unauthorized database access attempts. The remediation process should include thorough testing to ensure that patches do not introduce regressions while maintaining the intended functionality of the content management system.